The commercial refrigerator is vital to the operations of restaurants, bars, and foodservice businesses of all kinds. They keep your business afloat in a very literal sense, and therefore maintenance of the refrigerator is necessary for success. However, many foodservice facility managers don’t know the ins and outs of this piece of equipment, and what all can go wrong with its maintenance.
If a commercial refrigerator breaks down it can wreak havoc on your business. And, if neglected, your refrigerator and ice machines can be the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and viruses such as salmonella, listeria, and E. coli. This can put your staff and customers at risk, as well as your business when you’re hit with health code violations and lawsuits. The best way to prevent this is by following proper refrigeration protocols at every level.
These 10 steps should always be followed by your maintenance team to ensure your commercial refrigerator is running at peak performance:
- Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
- Lubricate hinges and inspect handles for wear and tear
- Check lines for excess moisture and debris
- Calibrate the thermometers and ensure your refrigerator is set to the right temperature
- Inspect the fan motor and fans
- Inspect electrical elements
- Inspect ice machine including filters for wear and tear
- Clean ice machine thoroughly
- Inspect insulation
- Inspect for air leaks
Some of these protocols are common knowledge, but some of them are more nuanced and should only be performed by professionals. Condenser coils, drain lines, and other components can be difficult to reach and some aspects of refrigeration maintenance can be hazardous. In most cases, a professional should handle these tasks with basic cleaning scheduled among the staff regularly.
If you are interested in increasing the service life and performance of your commercial equipment, contact MaintenX today. We offer comprehensive HVAC/R repairs, installations, and preventative care services for commercial clients across the country. Our team is committed to exceptional service at every level. When you need the experts, call your MaintenX team.
